spontaneous combustion

noun

: self-ignition of combustible material through chemical action (such as oxidation) of its constituents

called also spontaneous ignition

Examples of spontaneous combustion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ten competitors in two Orlando World of Beer Bar & Kitchen locations aren’t waiting for spontaneous combustion. Amy Drew Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 26 July 2024 There’s one more major category of spontaneous combustion: the drying oils. Caroline Delbert, Popular Mechanics, 9 Jan. 2023 The Mesa mulch fire garnered a lot of attention as the fire, likely due to spontaneous combustion, was expected to burn for nearly 24 to 48 hours as fire crews monitored it. The Arizona Republic, 6 June 2023 Back-to-back-to-back recalls in recent weeks for issues ranging from spontaneous combustion to loss of power while driving at highway speeds puts Ford at a competitive disadvantage during a time when automakers are fighting to define themselves as market leaders, analysts say. Phoebe Wall Howard, Detroit Free Press, 24 June 2022 See all Example Sentences for spontaneous combustion 

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spontaneous combustion was in 1795

Dictionary Entries Near spontaneous combustion

Cite this Entry

“Spontaneous combustion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spontaneous%20combustion. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

spontaneous combustion

noun
: a bursting of material into flame from the heat produced within itself by chemical action (as oxidation)

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